TWO supergrid transformers have been delivered to the site of SSEN Transmission‘s Creag Dhubh substation project in Argyll.
The successful deliveries follow a carefully coordinated operation to transport the units to site, including shipping them from Poland to Clydebank before an onward journey of approximately 90 miles to the substation near Cladich.
Supergrid transformers are among the largest components on the electricity network, often weighing several hundred tonnes. They are used to step voltage up or down, enabling electricity to be transmitted efficiently across the network.
SSEN Transmission worked with key partners Hitachi Energy and specialist haulage and freight operators Allelys and Fracht, as well as Transport Scotland, BEAR Scotland, Police Scotland, BT, and local authorities, to guide the deliveries through multiple stages of the route. Temporary traffic controls were used where required to ensure the safe passage of the loads while minimising disruption as far as possible.
Following arrival on site, both transformers were moved into position on specialist platforms as part of a controlled operation that took several days to complete. With the units now in place, work will continue towards energising the substation, which forms part of a series of network upgrades across Argyll to support new renewable energy generation and strengthen local energy security.
Lee Biddulph, project manager for the Creag Dhubh substation project, said, “Transporting components of this size is a complex operation that requires extensive planning and coordination, and the successful delivery of both transformers is a significant achievement for everyone involved in the Creag Dhubh project. We’re grateful to local communities and road users for their patience and understanding during the transportation process, and I’d also like to thank the key agencies and local authorities whose support helped make these deliveries possible.
“The safe delivery of these transformers marks a major milestone for the project. They will play a vital role in strengthening the local electricity network in Argyll, enabling more renewable energy generation while supporting Scotland and the UK’s long-term energy security and clean energy ambitions.”
Richard Holliday, market manager UK, business unit transformers at Hitachi Energy, added, “We’re proud to support the UK’s energy transformation, supplying high-performance transformers that will strengthen Scotland’s electricity network and help deliver a cleaner, more resilient energy future.”
